Embedded Image Periscopes (EIPs)

Kent Periscopes is the leading exponent of this innovative type of solution, and our experience has taught us that different circumstances call for different solutions.

Embedded Image Periscopes (EIPs) provide classic direct view periscope vision, combined with the ability to display digital images from sensors and cameras located on the vehicle directly into the original, or sometimes virtual, periscope window.

The EIP products offered by Kent Periscopes consist typically of a standard periscope upper assembly and a compact lower assembly which holds a VGA display - allowing the user to select direct view or digital view without moving the head position or swapping out periscopes. They each offer a versatile solution for AFV drivers, enabling a quick and intuitive switching between direct view and digital imagery from sensors and cameras on the vehicle, giving a comprehensive image of the mission ahead through battlefield obscurants, during the day and at night. But they are equally relevant to other positions in the vehicle, where constraints exist. An EIP eliminates need for separate displays or alternative “swap in” night-vision solutions.

All Kent Periscopes’ EIPs are designed to be modular and can therefore be configured for both new vehicle requirements and as a direct replacement for current in service solutions - with minimal, if any, vehicle modification.

The summary benefits of our EIPs are as follows:

A “standalone” and “leave alone” Day & Night solution

Ability to display images from existing cameras and sensors on the vehicle

Eliminates the need for additional monitors within the crew compartment

Reduced logistic and through life support cost

Ergonomically designed to minimize head movement

Reduced training burden

All of our EIPs are designed to be compatible with hull or hatch fitted periscopes, and can be designed to fit existing space envelopes. The VGA displays that we use ensure that high quality images are provided to the user.

Where space permits, aspheric and diffractive optics give a high quality relaxed biocular view. Where space constraints are more severe, a custom design wide-format display provides the digital view. Our new EIP BVM provides a convenient solution for use with existing periscopes, such as the ubiquitous M17 and M27 designs.

In all variants, EIP provides a relaxed view of the image in the normal optical path without the need for the user to press their head up against the unit, reducing the risk of facial injury during rapid deceleration.

The EIPs are designed for integration with the vehicle controls or the installation of an external control box to manage the power and digital video display feeds - allowing the user to switch between multiple sensors and tune the image, for example with Ti images to adjust the gain, and select whether image is black or white hot.

Kent Periscopes has earned a strong reputation for its ability to deliver a range of good quality products at competitive prices. We design and manufacture unity vision periscopes – episcope, periskop, periscopio or peryskop – for armoured fighting vehicles, including tanks, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) and Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs). We also design and supply Embedded Image Periscopes that combine a day view with the ability to view digital images from on vehicle cameras and sensors, Commander's and Gunner's observation and weapon aiming sights, together with a range of related equipment all of which is manufactured and qualified to well-established industry build standards, such as DEFCONS and MIL-STDS. In addition, we offer a range of optional features including ballistic protection enhancing air gaps, black-out blinds, glass or acrylic prisms, aluminium alloy, DMC or plastic injection-moulded housings, upgradable laser filters for single or multi-line wavelength protection, EMC attenuation filters, heated windows and radiation hardened glass. We also provide repair and refurbishment services for in-service parts that may no longer be supported or serviced by the original equipment manufacturer.